Vector Problem

So I have this small problem. Two vectors A and B added together give the vector S. Show that S (which I'm assuming is the scalar of S) is equal to (A^2 + B^2 + 2AB Cos (theta) ) / 2 remembering that S. S = S^2 and S= A+B. I'm really not sure how to make a start on it. I'm thinking that it has something to do with the rule a.b= [a][b]cos theta, but I can't seem to make the first leap. Any suggestions

I think your right about the squaring of the vector, not being possible. However I don't theink the squraed parts are refering to the vectors. They weren't in bold, which I believe is the usual convention for vectors. So I'm assuming that the are the values or the scalar. ie Ai + Aj or possible the scalar product. Sorry I'm really at a loss about this stuff.